Chili's

It’s easy to see why Chili’s has become such a firm favourite among Dubai’s families 2 Reviews

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It’s easy to see why Chili’s has become such a firm favourite among Dubai’s families. First, there’s the wall-to-wall décor of exposed brick, vintage Americana (think mid-’80s posters promoting provincial chilli ‘cook-offs’) and fake greenery. The result is too thick, too clumsy, to persuade the wayward Texan that he has found his way home, but does make for a riot of colour and interest to help keep little ones amused. Secondly, the veritable army of Chili’s serving staff will happily create an astonishing spectacle of noise and cheer when you opt to hold a birthday here. And finally, there’s the indulgent menu of massive portions. Even the starters are almost impossible to finish: nachos are smeared liberally with hot and cheesy chilli; the signature Old Timer burger boasts enough dollops of relish on the thick meaty patty that the bun is likely to disintegrate; and sizzling platters of fajitas produce thick clouds of salty smoke guaranteed to get hungry mouths slavering, provided you don’t choke on the heady vapours first. Assuming you don’t try to finish each portion, you might even have room to tackle the oozing mass of molten chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream.

Of course, there are two sides to every story, and for many diners the blatant Americana will prove claustrophobic, the menu (aside from a few surprisingly tasty Guiltless Grill options) just too calorific, and the average of five greetings per visit unnecessary, bordering on the intrusive. Nonetheless, Chili’s is consistently heaving, and dotted among those families are many workers who have come direct from a long day at the office. It’s not just little kids in Dubai who appreciate piles of greasy comfort food – Chili’s lacks refinement, but serves this up in great quantities.

Chilis, Garhoud (04 282 8484). Taxi Near CompuMe, just over Garhoud Bridge. Open 11am-12 midnight Sat-Thu, 1.30pm-12 midnight Fri. All major credit cards accepted. Average price of meal for two with soft drinks Dhs200-300. Other locations BurJuman Centre (04 352 2900), Deira City Centre (04 295 9559), Jumeirah 344 1300), Mall of the Emirates (04 341 3355).

• Previous reviews
  • 26 March,2008- reviewed by Jeremy Lawrence
  • 12 March,2007- reviewed by Time Out Dubai Staff
  • 01 June,2005- reviewed by Matthew Lee
  • 01 August,2002- reviewed by Carolyn Robb
  • 01 September,2001- reviewed by Time Out Dubai Staff

Time Out reviews restaurants anonymously and pays for meals. Of course, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or independence of user reviews.